The biggest hurdle homeowners face when looking to fix or replace their roofs is choosing a contractor. After a damaging storm, they need to quickly get back on track and make necessary roof repairs. But that doesn’t mean you should pick the first contractor that comes knocking on your door.
Finding a contractor who is trustworthy, honest and professional may seem difficult, but roof repair contractors should share these top 10 tips with homeowners to show them that their company is trustworthy and can be trusted to protect their home and wallet.
There is less chance of potential problems or scams when you choose a contractor from your community. They are more familiar with local regulations and codes and have a relationship with teams and vendors in the area.
Not all contractors can offer manufacturer warranties that include coverage for contractor labor. If a contractor installs the roof incorrectly, it can take months or years for the damage to show up and insurance won’t pay for it. If the contractor doesn’t fix it (or worse, has gone out of business), your only recourse is to pay for your mistake yourself.
The contractor must have insurance for all employees and subcontractors and be able to provide a copy of their insurance certificate for validation. Not having adequate insurance could lead to litigation between the contractor and the homeowner if a roofer is injured in the home. Most states require a license for contractors, but that doesn’t stop unlicensed contractors from trying to do roofing work.
Any contractor who claims they can handle the repair without the homeowner paying their insurance deductible is committing insurance fraud and endangering the homeowner. The insurance deductible is the responsibility of the insured, and the contractor must reflect it in the quote without inflating the estimate to cover all or part of the deductible.
Beware of a contractor who pressures you into signing a contract before the insurance company has estimated the damage. Some contractors say they can work with whatever your insurance company agrees to, however, the homeowner needs to make sure it’s not just any amount, but the correct amount. The contractor must thoroughly examine the home and verify that your insurance adjuster did not miss any damage.
A contractor who doesn’t offer you different shingle options isn’t looking out for your contractor’s best interest. The style and color of the shingles you install can affect the resale value of your home. If the insurance company is paying for a new roof, it may be the perfect time to make a change and upgrade to a more unique style that suits your taste. At D&S Construction LLC we offer extensive design and color options for your home. Review the options now so you’re ready. Knowledge is power.
